In order to recognize and reward outstanding nonprofit organizations throughout Colorado and honor Spencer and Julie Penrose's commitment to the nonprofit sector, the Trustees of El Pomar Foundation inaugurated the Awards For Excellence program in 1989.

This program is unique in that candidate organizations do not apply for the awards, but are nominated and selected by a distinguished panel of Coloradoans known as the Awards For Excellence Selection Commission. El Pomar Trustees name individuals to the Commission, who represent a variety of interests and share a history of leadership throughout Colorado. The Selection Commission acts independently of the Foundation to determine the winner and finalists in each of 13 Awards For Excellence categories.

Winners are announced at the annual Awards For Excellence presentation banquet, an event that takes place in Colorado Springs each November and is attended by over 800 Colorado community members. For the participating organizations, the Awards For Excellence program provides more than a financial incentive; participation can lead to increased public awareness of their organizations for years to come.

Routt County Organizations that have won the El Pomar Foundation Awards for Excellence are: Arts and Humanities
Strings in the Mountains Festival of Music (now called Strings Music Festival)

Environment
The Tribal Conservation Corps

Health Care - Large
*Northwest Colorado Visiting Nurse Association

* denotes an additional award in the Awards for Excellence CategoryArts and Humanities
Strings in the Mountains Festival of Music

Environment
Yampa Valley Land Trust

Health Care - Large
Northwest Colorado Visiting Nurse Association
*Steamboat Springs Health Care Association

Self Sufficiency
Horizons Specialized Services

Seniors
The Haven (West Routt Rural Health Council)

* denotes an additional award in the Awards for Excellence Category